Naked Security recently reported on a new ransomware exploit that looks like the infamous Windows Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). The tactic this time is to trick you into calling a toll-free number for “support.” This is another variation of the “Fake Tech Support” scam that we have written about numerous times.
The lock screen feature is similar to the “FBI Warning” losck screen exploit of the past, but instead displays the a facsimile of the Blue Screen of Death. In addition to displaying the blue screen, this malware exploit freezes your mouse, and disables the Task Manager. There is also a pop-up message that asks you to call a toll-free number for help. The helpers will charge a fee to “fix” your computer.
Your mom told you not to talk to strangers, and this applies here. Your options include booting into Safe Mode and using Windows Defender or System Restore to roll back your computer to remove the malware. If that fails to work, then you should be calling your regular computer support professional, whether on staff, or through your computer support company.
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About the Author:
I am a cybersecurity and IT instructor, cybersecurity analyst, pen-tester, trainer, and speaker. I am an owner of the WyzCo Group Inc. In addition to consulting on security products and services, I also conduct security audits, compliance audits, vulnerability assessments and penetration tests. I also teach Cybersecurity Awareness Training classes. I work as an information technology and cybersecurity instructor for several training and certification organizations. I have worked in corporate, military, government, and workforce development training environments I am a frequent speaker at professional conferences such as the Minnesota Bloggers Conference, Secure360 Security Conference in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, the (ISC)2 World Congress 2016, and the ISSA International Conference 2017, and many local community organizations, including Chambers of Commerce, SCORE, and several school districts. I have been blogging on cybersecurity since 2006 at http://wyzguyscybersecurity.com